Starch Medical Launches New, Bioinert Surgical Hemostats

SAN JOSE, Calif., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ — Starch Medical Inc, a San Jose, CA-based medical
device manufacturer, announces the CE approval of its PerClot(TM) Polysaccharide Hemostatic
System (PHS) and the StarFoam(TM) Absorbable Polysaccharide Hemostat. Introduction of
PerClot(TM) PHS will commence this month in the European Union and other select
international markets. The StarFoam(TM) Absorbable Polysaccharide Hemostat will launch
during the 2nd quarter, 2009.

PerClot(TM) PHS is an absorbable, surgical hemostat composed of Absorbable Modified
Polymers (AMP(TM)). AMP(TM) technology incorporates sophisticated, plant-based polymer
modification processes that yield biocompatible, polysaccharide particles. There is no thrombin,
collagen, or other human or animal components in AMP(TM) particles. A family of customized,
single-use application instruments will enhance the delivery of AMP(TM) to the wound site for
the control of capillary, venous and arterial bleeding in both open and minimally invasive
surgical procedures.

The StarFoam(TM) Absorbable Polysaccharide Hemostat, also developed with AMP(TM)
technology, is produced in a hemostatic foam (wafer) configuration. Application of
StarFoam(TM) will feature a simple “press and release” technique.

David Lang, President of SMI, commented, “The clinical introduction of PerClot(TM) PHS and its
proprietary, integrated AMP(TM) technology represents the next generation of polysaccharide
hemostatic agents. The StarFoam(TM) product line will offer surgeons a choice of hemostatic
formats for a range of surgical wounds. Compared to current polysaccharide based hemostats,
PerClot(TM) PHS and StarFoam(TM) demonstrate superior hydrophilic action and enhanced
adhesive strength. These performance features, coupled with custom delivery systems, have
been favorably received in a diverse range of surgical applications in Europe, Asia and Latin
America.”